Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Saint Louis, MO

Photo of Julie Maples, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julie Maples
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63131
I have a passion for mental health disorders (anxiety, depression, bipolar, etc.
Hi! I’m Julie. Can we first take a moment to celebrate the fact that you are on this website right now? Seriously, congratulations! Searching for a therapist is no easy feat, my friend. It’s awesome that you are here taking the first step to work through some of life’s challenges. Life is hard enough; you don’t have to do it alone. So, let’s see if we’d be a good fit for each other! Some of my greatest joys in life include puppies, coffee, and, most importantly, seeing my clients have the breakthroughs they are looking for and freedom from the things that hold them back or hurt them.
I have a passion for mental health disorders (anxiety, depression, bipolar, etc.
Hi! I’m Julie. Can we first take a moment to celebrate the fact that you are on this website right now? Seriously, congratulations! Searching for a therapist is no easy feat, my friend. It’s awesome that you are here taking the first step to work through some of life’s challenges. Life is hard enough; you don’t have to do it alone. So, let’s see if we’d be a good fit for each other! Some of my greatest joys in life include puppies, coffee, and, most importantly, seeing my clients have the breakthroughs they are looking for and freedom from the things that hold them back or hurt them.
(636) 206-7860 View (636) 206-7860
Photo of Marvin Steven Miller, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Marvin Steven Miller
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63136
I use a client-centered therapy approach to treat a wide range of conditions including: Depression and suicidal feelings, Anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive, panic, and PTSD, Drug and alcohol addictions, Self-esteem and self-image problems, Personality disorders, Marital and relationship conflicts, Family Therapy, Psychotic disorders such as bipolar illness and schizophrenia.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in full-time private practice. I have experience working with patients from adolescence onward in individual psychotherapy, family therapy, and group therapy. In addition, I have experience with clients that are perpetrators of domestic abuse, incarcerated males and the elderly.
I use a client-centered therapy approach to treat a wide range of conditions including: Depression and suicidal feelings, Anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive, panic, and PTSD, Drug and alcohol addictions, Self-esteem and self-image problems, Personality disorders, Marital and relationship conflicts, Family Therapy, Psychotic disorders such as bipolar illness and schizophrenia.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in full-time private practice. I have experience working with patients from adolescence onward in individual psychotherapy, family therapy, and group therapy. In addition, I have experience with clients that are perpetrators of domestic abuse, incarcerated males and the elderly.
(314) 382-9318 View (314) 382-9318
Photo of Richard B Boswell - Richard B. Boswell, LCSW, L.L.C, LCSW, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Richard B. Boswell, LCSW, L.L.C
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LLC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63132  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My practice is highly specialized using evidence-based methods that help couples, families and individuals. I am certified by both the Gottman Institute and the International Center for Excellence in Emotionally Focused Therapy to help couples. I also work with individuals experiencing the challenge of depression, anxiety, trauma, bipolar disorder, parenting issues or those needing to improve their relationships with the important people in their lives.
My practice is highly specialized using evidence-based methods that help couples, families and individuals. I am certified by both the Gottman Institute and the International Center for Excellence in Emotionally Focused Therapy to help couples. I also work with individuals experiencing the challenge of depression, anxiety, trauma, bipolar disorder, parenting issues or those needing to improve their relationships with the important people in their lives.
(314) 334-8835 View (314) 334-8835
Photo of Betsey Pope, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Betsey Pope
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63127  (Online Only)
Currently have a few openings! My focus is helping adults who feel anxious, overwhelmed, burned out, or depressed; who are struggling through life transitions and relationships, stress or with negative feelings about themselves. I work with ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder and self-esteem issues. I also enjoy working with late-recognized Autistic adults. I cannot diagnose Autism. I identify as neurodivergent and provide neurodiversity affirming care.
Currently have a few openings! My focus is helping adults who feel anxious, overwhelmed, burned out, or depressed; who are struggling through life transitions and relationships, stress or with negative feelings about themselves. I work with ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder and self-esteem issues. I also enjoy working with late-recognized Autistic adults. I cannot diagnose Autism. I identify as neurodivergent and provide neurodiversity affirming care.
(314) 526-2772 View (314) 526-2772
Photo of Janice Bushong, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Janice Bushong
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63123
My name is Janice Bushong, I am a Licensed Professional counselor in the state of Missouri. I have a history of working in substance abuse, individual therapy, group therapy and couple's therapy. Types of clients I most typically work with are substance abuse, anxiety disorder, depression, anger management and bipolar disorder. I very much enjoy working with the addictive personality group of clients,
My name is Janice Bushong, I am a Licensed Professional counselor in the state of Missouri. I have a history of working in substance abuse, individual therapy, group therapy and couple's therapy. Types of clients I most typically work with are substance abuse, anxiety disorder, depression, anger management and bipolar disorder. I very much enjoy working with the addictive personality group of clients,
(636) 249-1760 View (636) 249-1760
Photo of Joy Hathaway, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Joy Hathaway
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63139
She has experience with substance use and behavioral addictions, as well as anxiety, depression, bipolar, relationship issues, and many other conditions that bring people to therapy.
Joy Hathaway, LPC Joy Hathaway is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri who has been practicing since 2014. She has a Master of Education in Counseling from the University of Missouri, St. Louis, and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from University of Missouri, St. Louis. Joy enjoys working with people to find the best path for them, personally, to help them move their lives forward. Her approach is based mostly on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, incorporating elements from ACT, DBT, strengths-based, person-centered, and trauma-informed.
She has experience with substance use and behavioral addictions, as well as anxiety, depression, bipolar, relationship issues, and many other conditions that bring people to therapy.
Joy Hathaway, LPC Joy Hathaway is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri who has been practicing since 2014. She has a Master of Education in Counseling from the University of Missouri, St. Louis, and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from University of Missouri, St. Louis. Joy enjoys working with people to find the best path for them, personally, to help them move their lives forward. Her approach is based mostly on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, incorporating elements from ACT, DBT, strengths-based, person-centered, and trauma-informed.
(314) 907-0880 View (314) 907-0880
Photo of Joni Neuharth, MEd,  LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Joni Neuharth
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63139
Specializing in treating alcohol and drug use, anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, and psychosis/schizophrenia, Jo is passionate about helping clients navigate their mental health challenges. Her approach includes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Exposure Therapy, which are evidence-based interventions known for their effectiveness in addressing various mental health issues. Jo is dedicated to providing individualized care that empowers her clients to make positive changes in their lives. Jo serves a diverse range of populations, including LGBTQ+ individuals, military personnel and veterans, and both women and men.
Specializing in treating alcohol and drug use, anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, and psychosis/schizophrenia, Jo is passionate about helping clients navigate their mental health challenges. Her approach includes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Exposure Therapy, which are evidence-based interventions known for their effectiveness in addressing various mental health issues. Jo is dedicated to providing individualized care that empowers her clients to make positive changes in their lives. Jo serves a diverse range of populations, including LGBTQ+ individuals, military personnel and veterans, and both women and men.
(314) 947-6219 View (314) 947-6219
Photo of Terry L Boyer, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Terry L Boyer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63132
Do you feel overwhelmed? Are you feeling stressed out, sad or depressed? Are you arguing about the same thing over and over? I would like the opportunity to help you with what ever problems you are experiencing. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Certified Mediator working with children, teens, individuals, couples and families in a private practice in Creve Coeur. I have experience working with people diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, ADHD, Conduct Disorder, and Abuse. I am optimistic that together we can find solutions to your concerns.
Do you feel overwhelmed? Are you feeling stressed out, sad or depressed? Are you arguing about the same thing over and over? I would like the opportunity to help you with what ever problems you are experiencing. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Certified Mediator working with children, teens, individuals, couples and families in a private practice in Creve Coeur. I have experience working with people diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, ADHD, Conduct Disorder, and Abuse. I am optimistic that together we can find solutions to your concerns.
(314) 200-0740 View (314) 200-0740
Photo of Aya B Kawasaki, LCSW, MSW, LLM, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Aya B Kawasaki
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, LLM
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63109
Depression, anxiety, phobia, self injury, grief, adjustment, stress, relationship, anger, adoption, family, physical health, PTSD, bipolar.
I work with adolescents, adults, and seniors. In home, in school services are available. Clients are encouraged to have specific goals in order to have a personalized treatment plan. I also like to incorporate relaxation exercise.
Depression, anxiety, phobia, self injury, grief, adjustment, stress, relationship, anger, adoption, family, physical health, PTSD, bipolar.
I work with adolescents, adults, and seniors. In home, in school services are available. Clients are encouraged to have specific goals in order to have a personalized treatment plan. I also like to incorporate relaxation exercise.
(314) 932-2368 View (314) 932-2368
Photo of Jennifer Such - Such Counseling LLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Such Counseling LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63101  (Online Only)
Welcome! My name is Jenny Such and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the states of Missouri, Illinois, Texas and Maryland doing virtual sessions only. My counseling style is relaxed, warm and empathetic. I believe everyone should be treated with respect and compassion. Together, we will come up with a plan to meet your needs. My experiences ranges from anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, addiction, trauma, daily life stressors and more. I do have experience with First Responders, Active-Duty Military, Reserves, and Military families. I work with teens and adults of all ages.
Welcome! My name is Jenny Such and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the states of Missouri, Illinois, Texas and Maryland doing virtual sessions only. My counseling style is relaxed, warm and empathetic. I believe everyone should be treated with respect and compassion. Together, we will come up with a plan to meet your needs. My experiences ranges from anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, addiction, trauma, daily life stressors and more. I do have experience with First Responders, Active-Duty Military, Reserves, and Military families. I work with teens and adults of all ages.
(573) 367-5232 View (573) 367-5232
Photo of Jennifer Patricia Campbell, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer Patricia Campbell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63101  (Online Only)
I work with LGBTQIA+, substance abuse, trauma, women's issues, and chronic mental health concerns like depression, anxiety, bipolar, and personality disorders.
This "little thing called life" is not working for you. Your struggle with sexuality, gender, addiction, depression, or anxiety can be overwhelming. You feel odd, weird, alone. You do not need to be alone. We will work together to tailor our approach to meet your unique and specific needs. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. You want to laugh again, and not sarcastically or ironically, let's rediscover the humor in this little thing called life.
I work with LGBTQIA+, substance abuse, trauma, women's issues, and chronic mental health concerns like depression, anxiety, bipolar, and personality disorders.
This "little thing called life" is not working for you. Your struggle with sexuality, gender, addiction, depression, or anxiety can be overwhelming. You feel odd, weird, alone. You do not need to be alone. We will work together to tailor our approach to meet your unique and specific needs. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. You want to laugh again, and not sarcastically or ironically, let's rediscover the humor in this little thing called life.
(314) 804-3349 View (314) 804-3349
Photo of Dana M Powell - Dana M. Powell and Associates, LLC, MS Ed, MA,  LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dana M. Powell and Associates, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS Ed, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63106
We will use the best practices to address everyday stressors to PTSD, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, & Bipolar Disorder.
Thoughts seem to swirl constantly in your head or weighing you down. Let’s work together in treating your symptoms related to depression, anxiety, or PTSD. Moreover, let’s boost your self-worth and confidence with talk therapy, bibliotherapy, mirror-work, and journaling! At Dana M. Powell and Associates, LLC, we understand the challenges of coping with trauma, anxiety, and depression. Our team of highly skilled and licensed providers have a wealth of experience, including military and trauma backgrounds, and a deep commitment to helping individuals from all walks of life. We care deeply about your well-being and are dedicated.
We will use the best practices to address everyday stressors to PTSD, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, & Bipolar Disorder.
Thoughts seem to swirl constantly in your head or weighing you down. Let’s work together in treating your symptoms related to depression, anxiety, or PTSD. Moreover, let’s boost your self-worth and confidence with talk therapy, bibliotherapy, mirror-work, and journaling! At Dana M. Powell and Associates, LLC, we understand the challenges of coping with trauma, anxiety, and depression. Our team of highly skilled and licensed providers have a wealth of experience, including military and trauma backgrounds, and a deep commitment to helping individuals from all walks of life. We care deeply about your well-being and are dedicated.
(573) 345-2440 View (573) 345-2440
Photo of Sara Loftis, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sara Loftis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63129
My specialties include PTSD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and borderline personality disorder.
I have 15 years of experience working with families, couples and adolescents/teenagers who have endured trauma. Many I have helped struggled with self-harm, suicidal thoughts/attempts, anxiety, being bullied, peer pressure and peer conflicts, self-esteem, school performance, and/or school behaviors. I have also worked with many women over the years. Woman I have helped came to me due to weight management issues, grief, divorce, relationship issues/infidelity, finding purpose, the life-change cycle and stress/anxiety related to work/career challenges/changes. I enjoy helping clients find their inner self-confidence and strength.
My specialties include PTSD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and borderline personality disorder.
I have 15 years of experience working with families, couples and adolescents/teenagers who have endured trauma. Many I have helped struggled with self-harm, suicidal thoughts/attempts, anxiety, being bullied, peer pressure and peer conflicts, self-esteem, school performance, and/or school behaviors. I have also worked with many women over the years. Woman I have helped came to me due to weight management issues, grief, divorce, relationship issues/infidelity, finding purpose, the life-change cycle and stress/anxiety related to work/career challenges/changes. I enjoy helping clients find their inner self-confidence and strength.
(314) 620-8291 View (314) 620-8291
Photo of Emily Kamp, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emily Kamp
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63117
Hi there - My name is Emily Kamp and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have over 17 years of experience working with individuals with severe and chronic mental illness. After working in an inpatient forensic psychiatric hospital for the last ten years, I am looking forward to sharing my knowledge and expertise in an outpatient setting. My areas of practice include Trauma, Attachment issues, Adjustment Disorders and Depression. I also have vast experience working with individuals who live with symptoms associated with Bipolar Disorder, Schizoaffective Disorder, and Schizophrenia.
Hi there - My name is Emily Kamp and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have over 17 years of experience working with individuals with severe and chronic mental illness. After working in an inpatient forensic psychiatric hospital for the last ten years, I am looking forward to sharing my knowledge and expertise in an outpatient setting. My areas of practice include Trauma, Attachment issues, Adjustment Disorders and Depression. I also have vast experience working with individuals who live with symptoms associated with Bipolar Disorder, Schizoaffective Disorder, and Schizophrenia.
(314) 626-8527 View (314) 626-8527
Photo of Cherie Cell - Brightside Health, CSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brightside Health
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CSW
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63133  (Online Only)
We specialize in treating anxiety, depression, and many other common concerns like panic, bipolar, postpartum depression, and suicidal thoughts.
It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.
We specialize in treating anxiety, depression, and many other common concerns like panic, bipolar, postpartum depression, and suicidal thoughts.
It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.
(316) 333-6508 View (316) 333-6508
Photo of Emmogene Chepely, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Emmogene Chepely
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63130  (Online Only)
My name is Emmogene (Emma) Chepely, and I’m glad you’re here. I would be honored to help you take the important step toward a better life. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) licensed in Missouri and based in the St. Louis area, and I have over 6 years experience treating trauma, addiction, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, life changes, bipolar disorders, schizophrenia spectrum disorders, and LGBTQ+. I use an eclectic and personalized approach in order to provide a safe, welcoming, and comfortable environment which fosters growth and learning. I work to build a connection with no shame or judgement.
My name is Emmogene (Emma) Chepely, and I’m glad you’re here. I would be honored to help you take the important step toward a better life. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) licensed in Missouri and based in the St. Louis area, and I have over 6 years experience treating trauma, addiction, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, life changes, bipolar disorders, schizophrenia spectrum disorders, and LGBTQ+. I use an eclectic and personalized approach in order to provide a safe, welcoming, and comfortable environment which fosters growth and learning. I work to build a connection with no shame or judgement.
(636) 245-0180 View (636) 245-0180
Photo of Danielle Endejan, MA, NCC, PLPC, CRAADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Danielle Endejan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, PLPC, CRAADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63130
I look forward to meeting you! I was born and raised in St. Louis, & obtained my undergraduate degree with honors in Counseling and Education followed by a Master of Arts in Counseling for Licensure in Professional Counseling from MBU. I utilize empirically proven interventions (such as Motivational Interviewing, CBT, DBT) interwoven with compassionate wisdom for the therapeutic goal of coming alongside you in your unique journey and extending the opportunity and hope for healing & growth through the situation you find yourself in. My desire is to provide an authentic and compassionate environment that fosters continuous healing.
I look forward to meeting you! I was born and raised in St. Louis, & obtained my undergraduate degree with honors in Counseling and Education followed by a Master of Arts in Counseling for Licensure in Professional Counseling from MBU. I utilize empirically proven interventions (such as Motivational Interviewing, CBT, DBT) interwoven with compassionate wisdom for the therapeutic goal of coming alongside you in your unique journey and extending the opportunity and hope for healing & growth through the situation you find yourself in. My desire is to provide an authentic and compassionate environment that fosters continuous healing.
(314) 470-9169 View (314) 470-9169
Photo of Rebecca Walsh, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rebecca Walsh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63143
Rebecca Walsh is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has been practicing for 6 years in the state of Missouri, working in both community-based and clinical work to assist primarily adults in managing mood disorders, coping skills for self-harming behaviors and trauma, as well as substance abuse disorders. Rebecca believes everyone has the capacity for change and deserves respect. She uses a humanistic approach to treating the whole person — mind, body, and spirit. Rebecca feels it is an honor for someone to ask her to walk with them along their journey to healing and hope.
Rebecca Walsh is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has been practicing for 6 years in the state of Missouri, working in both community-based and clinical work to assist primarily adults in managing mood disorders, coping skills for self-harming behaviors and trauma, as well as substance abuse disorders. Rebecca believes everyone has the capacity for change and deserves respect. She uses a humanistic approach to treating the whole person — mind, body, and spirit. Rebecca feels it is an honor for someone to ask her to walk with them along their journey to healing and hope.
(314) 936-4355 View (314) 936-4355
Photo of Jody (Hansen) Fixman, MA, LPC, NCC, Counselor
Jody (Hansen) Fixman
Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63141  (Online Only)
I have a wide range of experience including: Consulting and providing services for the Dr. Phil Show; Adjunct Professor in Graduate School Counseling program; Crisis counselor for the United States Postal Service, Care Manager for United Behavioral Health and Lead clinician for an outpatient clinic. I am Nationally Board Certified and a member of the following: Mo. Mental Health Counselors Assn.; American Counseling Association; American Psychological Assn. Don't wait another day to find solutions to your issues. I am also an online therapist so now you don't have to leave your home or work to get help. Make that call today!
I have a wide range of experience including: Consulting and providing services for the Dr. Phil Show; Adjunct Professor in Graduate School Counseling program; Crisis counselor for the United States Postal Service, Care Manager for United Behavioral Health and Lead clinician for an outpatient clinic. I am Nationally Board Certified and a member of the following: Mo. Mental Health Counselors Assn.; American Counseling Association; American Psychological Assn. Don't wait another day to find solutions to your issues. I am also an online therapist so now you don't have to leave your home or work to get help. Make that call today!
(314) 488-8798 View (314) 488-8798
Photo of Sarah Bell - Solutions for Wellbeing, LLC, MA, LPC, CCDP-D, MARS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Solutions for Wellbeing, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CCDP-D, MARS
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63146  (Online Only)
Our lives can get very busy--making it hard to find time for counseling. I provide counseling via Telehealth and offer convenient evening and weekend time slots. Life can sometimes “knock our socks off”—I focus on helping clients get back on track and thriving again. Together, we develop a step-by-step plan to identify the problem, explore possible solutions, and develop strategies to move forward. We will explore the things that are getting in the way of you feeling your best self.
Our lives can get very busy--making it hard to find time for counseling. I provide counseling via Telehealth and offer convenient evening and weekend time slots. Life can sometimes “knock our socks off”—I focus on helping clients get back on track and thriving again. Together, we develop a step-by-step plan to identify the problem, explore possible solutions, and develop strategies to move forward. We will explore the things that are getting in the way of you feeling your best self.
(314) 690-9876 View (314) 690-9876
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Bipolar Disorder Therapists

What is the most successful approach to treating bipolar disorder?

Living with bipolar disorder can be challenging, and a number of therapies have been found effective in providing support to patients as they gain the skills to understand and manage the disorder. Family-focused therapy is often helpful for children and teens (the majority of cases develop before age 19); it aims to minimize mood cycling by improving family communication and reducing conflict. It also helps young people navigate the developmental challenges the disorder can create. Cognitive and behavioral therapy (CBT) and variants such as Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)help patients manage the thoughts and feelings that influence bipolar mood swings as well as develop specific behavioral strategies to counteract them.

What happens in therapy for bipolar disorder?

Because the patterns of mood switching and its triggers differ for each person and can change over time, mood tracking or monitoring becomes a basic way patients learn about the nature of their condition. One of the most common features of therapy is finding a workable method of mood monitoring, in which patients track their daily activities and rate their moods, then use the findings to adjust routines accordingly. Patients learn ways of handling the many stresses that arise in life so that they do not trigger mood swings.

What kinds of problems does therapy help with?

Like many other mental health disorders, BPD is heavily influenced by stress; therapy provides skills for coping with stressors of all kinds. Therapy is extremely important for helping individuals identify the situations that may trigger mood switching, so that mood swings can be prevented. Therapy may especially target recognition of the early stages of mood change so that they can be managed. In addition, therapy helps patients deal with the significant amount of turbulence the disorder can create in relationships and in work life.

What is the goal of therapy for bipolar disorder?

Therapy helps patients set up their lives to maintain stability so that their mood isn’t constantly threatened by daily events. Perhaps the first task of therapy is to educate people about the nature of the disorder. At the same time, a primary goal of therapy is to enhance adherence to drug treatment. Extended periods of mood stability can prompt patients to discontinue medication, triggering relapse, while the early phases of manic episodes can feel so energizing that patients stop medication, ushering in full-blown mania and the altered self-perception that can lead to destructive behaviors. Another major goal of therapy is to understand one’s mood patterns so as to minimize both the frequency and intensity of mood cycling.